When you buy a budget mechanical keyboard, the first thing you will notice is that the larger keys, like the spacebar, enter key, and backspace, rattle and shake when you type. This is caused by cheap, unlubricated stabilizers.
To learn how to install plate mount stabilizers, you must first remove your switches. Then, assemble the stabilizer by inserting the plastic stem into the housing and clipping the metal wire into place. Finally, snap the assembled stabilizer directly into the square cutouts on your metal keyboard plate.
If you are upgrading your keyboard or building a custom board from scratch, properly installing and modifying your stabilizers is the single most important step for achieving a premium, “thocky” sound. Here is the ultimate step-by-step guide to installing plate mount stabilizers.
Already installed but running into rattle or binding? See our guide on how to fix mechanical keyboard stabilizers.
Plate-Mounted vs. PCB-Mounted Stabilizers
Before you begin, you must verify what type of stabilizers your keyboard supports.
- Plate-Mounted Stabilizers: These attach directly to the metal or polycarbonate plate that sits above your circuit board. They are the most common type found in budget pre-built keyboards. To install plate-mounted stabilizers, you simply press-fit the housing into the designated cutout slots in the metal plate without the need for screws or soldering.
- PCB-Mounted Stabilizers: These attach directly to the printed circuit board (PCB). They have small plastic pegs that fit into holes in the PCB and are secured with screws or plastic clips. (If your board supports these, read our guide to the 3 Best Clip-In Stabilizers for Custom Keyboards).
Essential Tools Needed for Installation
Before you begin installing your plate mount stabilizers, make sure you have the necessary tools on hand:
- Switch Puller: To remove the switches blocking the stabilizer slots. (Read our guide on How to Remove Switches Without a Tool if you lost yours).
- Tweezers: For handling small components and positioning them accurately.
- Lubricant (Crucial): A thick, grease-like substance such as Krytox GPL 205 Grade 0 is required to stop the metal wire from rattling against the plastic housing.
- Dielectric Grease: Used specifically for coating the ends of the metal wire.
Step 1: Disassemble the Keyboard
To install plate mount stabilizers, the metal plate must be clear of obstructions. Use your switch puller to remove the mechanical switch that sits directly between the stabilizer slots (e.g., remove the switch under the spacebar).
Step 2: Modify the Stabilizers (Clipping)
If you bought standard Cherry-style plate mount stabilizers, you should “clip” them before installation to create a more stable and consistent typing experience.
- Disassemble the stabilizer to access the inner plastic stem.
- Look at the bottom of the stem; you will see two small, angled plastic legs.
- Use nail clippers or small flush cutters to carefully snip off those two angled legs so the bottom of the stem is perfectly flat. This prevents the stem from feeling “mushy” when bottoming out.
Step 3: Lubricate the Stabilizers
Properly lubing your stabilizers can significantly improve their performance by reducing friction and rattle.
- Apply a thin layer of Krytox 205g0 to the inside of the plastic housing, focusing on the area where the stem slides up and down.
- For the metal wire, dip the 90-degree ends into a thick lubricant like dielectric grease. You want a generous coating to cushion the metal where it contacts the plastic housing.
Step 4: Assemble the Stabilizer
- Insert the plastic stem into the plastic housing. (Make sure the side of the stem with two holes is facing the front of the housing where the wire will enter).
- Insert the greased 90-degree end of the metal wire into the bottom hole of the plastic stem.
- Snap the long part of the metal wire into the plastic clips on the front of the housing to secure it.
Step 5: Mount the Stabilizer to the Plate
- Position the assembled stabilizer over the appropriate rectangular holes on your mounting plate. Ensure that the metal wire is facing the correct direction (usually facing the top of the keyboard for the spacebar).
- Insert the front of the plastic housing (the side with the wire) into the plate cutout first.
- Gently push down on the back of the plastic housing until the flexible plastic clip snaps under the metal plate, locking it securely in place.
- Verify that the stabilizer is tightly gripping the plate. If it wobbles, it will rattle when you type.
(Once your stabilizers are installed, you are ready to insert your switches! Read our Ultimate Mechanical Keyboard Switches Guide to find the perfect match for your new build).
